Nationwide Protests and Strikes Erupt Across Italy in Solidarity with Gaza

On September 22, 2025, Italy witnessed widespread unrest as tens of thousands of citizens participated in pro-Palestinian demonstrations, strikes, and blockades. Organized by grassroots unions, the 24-hour general strike aimed to protest against Israel’s military actions in Gaza and to demand stronger actions from the Italian government. The protests led to significant disruptions across the country, including in major cities like Milan, Rome, and Genoa.

Nationwide Disruptions
The general strike saw participation from various sectors, including transportation, education, and port services. In Milan, approximately 50,000 people gathered, with some attempting to breach the central train station, leading to clashes with police. Similar protests occurred in Bologna, where demonstrators blocked highways before being dispersed by water cannons. In Genoa and Livorno, dock workers blocked port entrances, aiming to prevent Italian ports from facilitating arms transfers to Israel.

Government Response and Public Sentiment
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the violence during the protests, stating that such actions do not aid the people in Gaza. However, she maintained a cautious approach to the Gaza conflict, aligning closely with U.S. foreign policy. Despite growing international recognition of Palestinian statehood by countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia, Italy has refrained from such recognition. Public sentiment in Italy remains divided, with a significant portion of the population expressing concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Implications for Italian Politics
The protests highlight the increasing pressure on the Italian government to reassess its stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict. While the government has condemned the violence in Gaza, it faces criticism for not taking stronger actions. The demonstrations reflect a broader European trend of public support for Palestinian statehood and a reevaluation of diplomatic relations with Israel.

Conclusion
The September 2025 protests in Italy underscore the growing public demand for a more active role in addressing the Gaza conflict. As the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, the Italian government’s response to these demonstrations may influence its future foreign policy decisions and its relationship with both Israel and the Palestinian territories.